Summer Strolls no. 1

DOWNTOWN TORONTO: When I want a break from the downtown bustle I head for King and Bay – the piazzas around Mies van der Rohe’s TD bank towers are a Toronto treasure. So elegant, and so simple.

There is a Japanese starkness that creates a calm, serene feeling – minimal landscaping and gardening invites introspection and calmness. The black, grey and green tones create a peacefulness not usually found in downtown areas. Don’t forget to stroke the cows. Start on King (just W of Bay) and walk behind the towers to Wellington.

Follow the dappled lighting on the wispy trees. AFTER: Have a drink at the Bymark Bar. It’s right there, but so tasteful you might not even notice it. As Mies said “Less is more”.